Muaūpoko Waitangi Tribunal Claims

The Muaūpoko Waitangi Tribunal claims form part of the Porirua ki Manawatū District Inquiry (WAI 2200). Through this inquiry, Muaūpoko has presented evidence about historical Crown actions, land loss and impacts on our people. The claims also address Lake Horowhenua, the Hōkio Stream and other taonga.

Porirua ki Manawatū District Inquiry

The Waitangi Tribunal established the Porirua ki Manawatū District Inquiry to hear historical Treaty claims from iwi and hapū across the district.

In October 2014, Muaūpoko received priority status for its claims. Priority hearings then took place between October and December 2015.

During those hearings, Muaūpoko presented evidence about whenua, Crown purchasing and the Native Land Court. Evidence also covered Lake Horowhenua, the Hōkio Stream and the wider impact of Crown actions on the iwi.


Horowhenua: The Muaūpoko Priority Report

In June 2017, the Waitangi Tribunal released Horowhenua: The Muaūpoko Priority Report.

Overall, the report upheld most of the Muaūpoko claims considered. It also identified serious Treaty breaches relating to land loss and Crown actions concerning Lake Horowhenua and the Hōkio Stream.

In addition, the report found that Crown actions contributed to Muaūpoko becoming virtually landless by the end of the twentieth century.

As a result, these findings form an important part of the historical record of Muaūpoko experiences. They also support the ongoing pursuit of recognition and redress.


Muaūpoko Waitangi Tribunal Hearings 2026

The Porirua ki Manawatū District Inquiry hearings held from Monday 13 July to Friday 17 July 2026 gave Muaūpoko another opportunity to present evidence.

Importantly, this hearing week concluded the tangata whenua claimant phase of the wider inquiry. It included Muaūpoko-specific evidence not previously addressed during the priority hearings.

The hearings also covered matters relating to overlapping interests within the inquiry district.

Recordings of the hearings are available below:

Day 1: https://youtube.com/live/C_51wWaR71U?feature=share

Day 2: https://youtube.com/live/Stsq1ATy_Oo?feature=share

Day 3: https://youtube.com/live/mpakLTu6YJc?feature=share

Day 4: https://youtube.com/live/KkU6NZrYpFg?feature=share

Day 5: https://youtube.com/live/OQqUyDze_3c?feature=share


Continuing the Muaūpoko kaupapa

The Muaūpoko Waitangi Tribunal process provides an important record of our history, experiences and relationship with the Crown.

Through this process, Muaūpoko continues to seek recognition of historical grievances and their lasting effects.

Meanwhile, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority continues to represent and advocate for the interests of the iwi. This includes supporting the protection of our whenua, wai, taonga and future generations.

For further information, visit the official Waitangi Tribunal website. You can also explore our pages about Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, representation and the wider mahi of the iwi.